Santa Barbara Dreaming: Getaway to the West Coast

Imagine having the best of both worlds: a place where majestic mountains meet pristine beaches- a visual dream, surrounded by endless natural beauty. Lucky for you, that dream isn’t out of reach. Santa Barbara, California, offers the perfect blend of both, and now, with daily direct flights from Atlanta, there’s never been a better time to explore the West Coast.

(Some even say it’s the best coast, but you’ll have to be the judge of that!)

To ensure a perfect stay, position yourself in the heart of downtown at the fantastic 5-star Hotel Californian. With a prime location that offers easy access to the city’s top spots, it’s the ideal choice for a luxury getaway. (And yes, you’ll probably catch yourself humming that Eagles song when checking in.) You’ll enjoy surreal views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains- all while staying in one of the city’s most vibrant areas: the “Funk Zone.”

Don’t worry, it doesn’t actually smell funky. The affectionate name stuck over time, especially since this neighborhood was once the industrial, marine, and manufacturing part of town. While it still has some old-school charm with the buildings and the fishermen here, the neighborhood has transformed into a lively, artsy district filled with great galleries, wineries, restaurants, shops, and more. These days, “funk” refers to the creative transformation of old warehouses into trendy spaces.

This is the perfect city to explore new, local spots to eat and drink downtown or at the beach. Some standouts include San Setto for fresh sushi at The Ritz- Carlton; Loquita for mouthwatering Spanish cuisine; Blackbird at Hotel Californian; Clark’s Oyster Bar in Montecito; and the Ellwood at Goleta Beach for oceanfront cocktails and a stellar sunset view. And that’s just the beginning -the city is packed with even more incredible restaurants and bars you’re sure to love.

Santa Barbara is also famous for its wineries, earning the nickname “The American Riviera” thanks to its Mediterranean-like climate, coastal charm, and Spanish-influenced architecture. This unique environment helps make the local wines, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, truly shine. Don’t miss tasting rooms like Margerum Wine Company, Folded Hills, and the Bacara Wine Tasting Room. Of course, there are many more to explore, and it’s hard to go wrong in a region so rich in winemaking.

There’s something for every type of vacationer- history buffs, outdoor adventurers, art lovers, those looking to unwind, or people who simply want to explore a new city. There’s so much to do and see. Another bonus? The city is incredibly dog-friendly, so bring your furry friends along for the fun.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the possibilities are endless. Paddleboarding, hiking, sunset cruises, and birdwatching are just a few ways to take in the natural beauty. Visit parks and gardens such as Casa del Herrero or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, or play a round of golf at one of several championship courses, including Sandpiper Golf Course. If your version of “outdoorsy” is wandering the city, check out local landmarks like Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Harbor, where you’ll get a perfect mix of nature and city life.

And for those who love a little culture, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Visit MOXI: The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation for interactive, hands-on exhibits, the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara- the tenth of California’s 21 missions- or check out the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum or the Museum of Natural History. No matter your style, there’s plenty to do and see.

If you’ve already visited Santa Barbara and find yourself thinking, “Been there, done that,” consider staying at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara. This tucked-away hotel is perfect for those who have already explored the city and want spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. In addition to its 5-star reputation, the hotel offers something truly unique at the spa: an Aescape AI massage. What’s that? It’s a massage that blends artificial intelligence with robotic arms to provide a personalized experience following a 3D body scan. This high-tech treatment is certainly worth trying.

Santa Barbara has something for everyone. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, it’s the perfect place to discover the magic of the West Coast. With stunning scenery, world-class food and wine, and endless ways to explore
or unwind, it’s a destination that doesn’t disappoint. You’ll leave dreaming of your next trip back.